FCS Diversity and Inclusion - PROPOSED RULE - MARCH 2011 Dear Mr. Van Meter,
As a small producer serving local markets it is very important to me that the FCA incorporates a strategy to serve my demographic.
I have seen major cultural barriers that need to be addressed through trainings to FCS personnel across the full spectrum of lending, accounting, farm transfer and business planning services appropriate for serving local and regional food producers.
It is essential that a plan is put in place with deliverables that hold offices accountable-
-An investment goal for local and regional food producers of not less than 10% of each institution’s capital within 5 years.
-A plan for conducting outreach to local and regional food producers with a requirement that such an outreach plan and periodic progress reports be made public.
I have had a very challenging time accessing your programs and strongly believe that national support and guidance is a big first step in expanind the availability of your programs to small and local producers.
Sarah Brown
Diggin' Roots Farm
Milwaukie, OR
Sarah Brown 11934 se beckman ave Milwaukie, OR 97222